281 Aberdeen Avenue – Property Summary

Key Characteristics & Buyer Profile

This is a 1,445 sqft home built in 1927 on a notably large 5,321 sqft lot. The property stands out most for its land: on Aberdeen Avenue, it ranks in the top 2% for lot size, and within the William Whyte neighbourhood, it also ranks in the top 2%. The average lot on the street is roughly 3,265 sqft, so this property offers nearly two-thirds more outdoor space than neighbouring homes. The living area is above average for both the street and the neighbourhood—ranking in the top 9% and top 19% respectively—though it sits closer to the citywide average.

The assessed value of $172,000 is around average for the street but above average for the neighbourhood, which has a typical value of $149,100. Citywide, the property falls in the bottom 5% of assessed values, reflecting Winnipeg's broader range of housing stock. The year built is typical for the area (1927–1930), meaning the home comes with the character and maintenance considerations of a nearly century-old structure.

Where the appeal lies: The lot is the clear standout. For buyers who value outdoor space—gardening, room for additions, a large garage, or simply privacy between neighbours—this property offers something rare on Aberdeen Avenue and in William Whyte. The living space is solid but not exceptional by city standards, so the value is more in what's possible with the land than in the home itself.

Who it suits: Buyers who are comfortable with an older home and see potential in a large inner-city lot. It could work well for someone looking to renovate or expand, or for a household that prioritises yard space over a polished interior. Investors or flippers might also see upside, given the land-to-structure ratio. It's less suited for someone wanting a move-in-ready home with modern finishes, or for buyers who don't want to deal with the quirks of a 1920s build.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How does this home's assessed value compare to similar properties nearby?
It's slightly above the William Whyte neighbourhood average ($149,100) but right around the average for Aberdeen Avenue ($167,700). Citywide, it's well below the median, so you're getting more lot and living space for a relatively low assessed value compared to other Winnipeg homes.

2. What are the implications of the home being built in 1927?
Expect older construction methods, possibly lead paint, knob-and-tube wiring, or an outdated foundation. Renovations and upkeep may be needed sooner than with a newer home. That said, homes from this era often have solid framing and character details that are hard to find in modern builds. A thorough home inspection is essential.

3. Is this property a good candidate for a laneway suite or secondary dwelling?
The 5,321 sqft lot is generous for the area, but whether you can add a secondary unit depends on Winnipeg's zoning bylaws and the home's existing setbacks. The land size alone is promising, but you'd need to check the specific R1 or R2 zoning for this address and any restrictions on lot coverage or parking.

4. How does the living space rank against other homes in Winnipeg?
It's slightly above the citywide average of 1,342 sqft, ranking in the top 33%. So while it's not a large home by city standards, it's above the typical home in Winnipeg and considerably larger than most homes on Aberdeen Avenue and in William Whyte.

5. What's the neighbourhood like, and is the location convenient?
William Whyte is a central Winnipeg neighbourhood with good access to the North End, downtown, and major routes like Main Street and McPhillips. It's an older, established area with a mix of residential and commercial. Buyers should be aware that some blocks have higher vacancy or lower walkability scores, so visiting the street at different times of day is recommended.